I just compared the Nathan Endurance race vest and the Salomon XT Advanced Skin 5.
I ran 2 miles with each pack and used bottled water rather than filling the reservoir (so that they can later be sold).
Comparison: Nathan bounced and the Salomon sat tight.
Cons: Salomon holds on 1.5L while Nathan holds 2L. However, the Salomon had several moving parts and it was warm. Yes, it has a shield to keep your water from warming, but I’m afraid that either pack would lead to a significant increase in heat insulation (or at least preventing optimal heat exhaust).
Pros: Nathan has a waterproof pouch and greater storage capacity. Salomon has many small pockets and a built in whistle (and I think it was built “to fit like a glove”).
I have also tried the Camelbak Octane (on a 20 mile run). It would not stay put and slid down during the entire run.
I’m considering trying a rear waist pouch that holds standard water bottles, and I’m also considering hand-held options.
Input please???
Pics or links to the products you describe are very helpful.
I’ve used all kinds of hydration backpacks in training and it Ultra-tris and Ultra-runs and the Ultimate Direction Wasp is the most comfortable one I’ve tried yet.It is just great and has all kinds of storage space without being too bulky.It fits really snugly and doesn’t bounce around unless it is empty.
I’ve done lot’s of super long training run/hikes with it and it carried waterproof stuff,food,camera,lighter,multi-tool,long sleeve top etc,etc without it feeling too heavy.Hell during one of our HHH runs in Penticton last summer my girlfriend and I even picked up a bottle of wine each from a little winery we stopped at and ran home with them in the back no problem.
I am doing my 4th 50K trail race next weekend which marks 1 year for me as an “ultrarunner”. I tried hydration packs, handhelds, and belts. The winner for me hands down is the Nathan Trail Mix belt. Hydration pack is too bulky, bouncy when full and you have to take it off to fill it. Handhelds just didn’t feel normal carrying a bottle full of water through every swing of my arm. The Trail Mix can be cinched fairly snugly and has a plastic clip in back, so no velcro to wear out. The ultras I’ve done have never had more than 7 miles between aid stations, so the two 10oz bottles are plenty for that without carrying too much. Plus, there’s a pouch on the front for gels or whatever small things you can fit in there, and I have pockets in my shorts if needed. I think the rule of thumb for me, at least for racing, is don’t carry more than you need to. If you’re slogging along these vast distances, you don’t want to carry the extra weight.
I use the CBOXTC only if I really need 70oz of WATER. It’s comfy for about 12 miles then it starts to irritate on the waste and the pits (note: I rarely wear a shirt when I run so…).
The Natan belt has given me no problems. My only complaint is the shape/size of the storage pocket doesn’t quite fit a gel flask easily. If you need more than 20 oz of liquid (2x10 oz bottles) you can get the 4 bottle version and carry what you need. You could also use 1 or more of the extra bottles to store stuff (keys, gels, etc).
I’ve tried (and wasted money buying) about 8 different setups and these two work best FOR ME.
Good luck.
I agree 100% about choosing a smaller unit for races.
I’m looking at choosing my hydration weapon for the 20-30 mile training runs- when I’m out alone.
Got it. I should have asked that in the first place. I manage to have long training routes with water fountains along the route, so I can still pull it off with the Trail Mix belt.
I usually wear a waste belt with an extra in my jersey. I fill them with what i call GU brew, it doesnt get too heavy or mess with my stride/running style.
As I moved into longer stuff I found these; and still use them for all of my longer runs. They’re comfortable, easy to fill/clean. Once you get used to them you won’t even notice that you have them on.
When I need extra fluid/calories I also use a Camelbak Fairfax; it’s small enough and large enough at the same time, and has a front chest strap to keep it in place.
Like most things, once you find the one that works best for you then you’re set, but in the meantime do as you’re doing, ask a lot of questions and gets lots of opinions.
Have fun going longer.
I ran with the camelback Octane XTC for about a year and then changed.
I too was looking for this mainly for the long solo training. I tend to use 2 handhelds for race day anything 50m or under.
Has nice pockets, good capacity and easy access from the front while moving.
The only different thing is the way that the UD packs close their water reservoirs, they fold on themselves and then velcro fasten. I did end up with almost an entire bag in my shoes one time while trying to get the air out before closing.